RockTek G2 Chromecast
Score: 80/100
Xiaomi TV Stick 4K 2nd Gen Black
Score: 78/100Rankings
The RockTek G2 is a compact 4K UHD streaming box running a modified Android 14, offering Wi-Fi 6, Gigabit Ethernet and full Dolby Vision, HDR10+ and Dolby Atmos support. Its non-certified Android fork and thermal throttling limit reliability for power users, though it remains a strong budget alternative. Best suited for cost-conscious users upgrading non-smart TVs who value extensive codec support and Ethernet connectivity.
The Xiaomi TV Stick 4K (2nd Gen) is a pocket-sized streaming dongle delivering 4K HDR with Dolby Atmos and Wi-Fi 6. Its main trade-offs are limited storage and the absence of a wired Ethernet connection. Ideal for travelers and secondary TVs where space and price matter.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
8,294,400 pixelsbest | 8,294,400 pixelsbest | |
60 Hzbest | 60 Hzbest | |
4 GBbest | 2 GB | |
32 GBbest | 8 GB | |
| ↓ lower better | — | 0.044 kgbest |
| ↓ lower better | 10 Wbest | — |
1 countbest | 1 countbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio(1) | ||
Supported Audio Formats | Dolby Atmos, DTS-HD | MP3, AAC, RM, FLAC, DTS:X, DTS HD, Dolby Atmos |
Connectivity(2) | ||
Ethernet Port | true | false |
Bluetooth Version | 5.0+ | 5.2 |
Performance(3) | ||
CPU | Amlogic S905X4‑K | Quad-core Cortex-A55 (Amlogic S905X5M) |
GPU | Mali‑G31 MP2 | ARM G310 V2 |
RAM (GB) | 4 GB | 2 GB |
Storage(1) | ||
Internal Storage (GB) | 32 GB | 8 GB |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Dimensions (H×W×D) (mm) | 25.4x114.3x114.3 mm | 107.4x30x14 mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Rocktek G2 for its impressive 4K HDR and AV1 decoding, fast Wi-Fi 6 networking, and convenient voice-enabled remote, positioning it as a strong budget alternative to premium boxes. However, they caution that the non-certified Android fork, thermal throttling, and HDMI mislabeling diminish its appeal for power users who need guaranteed app certification and advanced gaming features.
Consumers generally appreciate the G2's ability to deliver smooth 4K streaming, reliable casting, and high-quality audio without breaking the bank. Common praise centers on its codec support and network performance, while recurring complaints focus on software update irregularities, remote connectivity issues, and occasional heating during long sessions.
“Excellent 4K@60fps playback with Dolby Vision/HDR10+/AV1 support and auto frame rate/color space matching”
“Modified Android 14 lacks Google certification, leading to inconsistent Play Store/Widevine L1/Netflix 4K support.”
“Thermal throttling (65°C after 18 min) causes minor HDR frame drops.”
Professional reviewers rave about the Xiaomi TV Stick 4K (2nd Gen)'s ultra-smooth Google TV experience, rapid 6 nm quad-core CPU/GPU performance and its ability to decode AV1 4K @ 60 fps, positioning it as a high-performance yet budget-friendly streaming stick. However, they note the absence of AI upscaling and an Ethernet port, which may be drawbacks for power users seeking wired reliability or advanced image enhancement.
Everyday users consistently commend the device's responsive interface, reliable 4K streaming and ultra-compact form factor that fits anywhere, while repeatedly mentioning the frustration of limited 8 GB storage and occasional power or remote setup quirks.
